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Former Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, has cautioned young people in the state against allowing themselves to be recruited as agents of violence by politicians ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ortom delivered the warning on Saturday during the burial of elder statesman and former Benue chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Aloysius Wuam, in Mbagbwaza, Ushongo Local Government Area.
Addressing mourners, the former governor emphasized that Benue communities were already grappling with severe insecurity and destruction linked to attacks by armed herders. He stressed that the state could ill afford further instability as the 2027 elections draw nearer.
Ortom urged youths not to permit manipulation into attacking political opponents, warning that anyone advocating violence should first present their own children to lead such actions. He also decried the growing disruption of church services and public gatherings in parts of the state, noting that such incidents could trigger avoidable crises if left unaddressed.
The former governor further called on traditional rulers to remain neutral and uphold their roles as custodians of culture and unity, rather than acting as partisan players in the political space.
In his tribute to the late Wuam, who died at the age of 91 on January 20, 2026, Ortom described him as a loyal party stalwart and stabilizing figure who believed strongly in teamwork and selfless service.
Also speaking at the event, Senate Minority Leader Patrick Abba Moro described Wuam as a dedicated public servant whose contributions to Benue’s political development would never be forgotten. He urged aspirants for the 2027 governorship race to prioritize the state’s interest above personal ambitions.
Several political leaders, dignitaries, and community figures attended the funeral and paid glowing tributes to the departed elder statesman.
The burial ceremony provided a platform for reflections on leadership, peace, and the need to safeguard Benue’s fragile stability amid rising political tensions and security concerns.
